A co-worker mentioned she was going to Hocking Hills for the first time. Hocking Hills, being my happy place, I immediately got excited. After compiling a list of my favorite spots for her, I decided to share it with you as well.
Hocking Hills is just over two hours from Cincinnati, making it a great last-minute spring break or weekend trip.
Where to Eat
- Kindred Spirits, situated on the grounds of Cedar Falls Inn and Spa, serves exceptional cuisine. Be sure to walk around the property before or after dinner and check out the gift shop next door. I do recommend a reservation for dinner.
- Coffee Emporium is an excellent spot for a treat and a good cup of coffee.
- Grandma Faye's Grocery and Deli is a small grocery store that serves homemade food and is a great place to connect to Wi-Fi.
- Home Tavern Bar and Grille & Hungry Buffalo are nearby restaurants worth checking out.
Adventures
Ziplining
I've had the thrill of ziplining at both locations, and while each offered an incredible experience worth trying, Hocking Hills Canopy Tours was my favorite!
Hiking Trails
Hocking Hills has some of the most scenic hiking trails.
- Cedar Falls is my absolute favorite!
- Ash Cave is a stunning trail where you might stumble upon groups drumming and dancing (see video below).
- Devil’s Bathtub, located along the Old Man’s Cave trail, is an incredible sight to see. If you start at the lodge, it’s just a few minutes into the trail.
- Rockbridge & Rock Cave are both worth exploring!
- The Hocking Hills State Park website offers information on guided hikes and educational talks.
I have explored almost every trail there and have never been disappointed.
Additional Activities
I did the Memorial Day train ride a few years ago. We really enjoyed the scenic ride with historical stops. Be sure to check the calendar and book tickets in advance.
I recently discovered that Hocking Hills has a castle, and it’s now on my must-visit list!
I haven't tried canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, golfing or rock climbing in Hocking Hills yet, but all of these activities are available.
Shopping & Unique Finds
If you love browsing for treasures, these places are worth a visit:
Unwind
- The Spa at the Inn at Cedar Falls is fantastic if you're looking to relax with a massage.
Lodging
There is a plethora of lodging to choose from in Hocking Hills and I've stayed at several.
- The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls offers a lodge, yurts, cottages, lofts, geodomes and cabins. I have stayed in one of the cabins and loved it. Heads up, there is no TV but the deck overlooking the woods made up for that!
- The Grand Oak Cabin is perfect for a large group. I stayed here with several cousins and aunts for one of my cousins' 40th birthday. We enjoyed the serene property, open common space and hot tub.
- Blue Rose Cabins was just a one-night stay. It was honestly so long ago that I do not remember the specifics, but it does have a hot tub.
- Valo Vasha, formerly known as Cozy Cabins, offers a variety of cabin options. We've stayed in them all, but the A-frame is my favorite—likely because it was where we stayed during our first visit to Hocking Hills.
I clearly love Hocking Hills State Park and the surrounding area. Let me know if you have any questions or favorite spots I missed.
Cool Places you can drive to.
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